Essential Kindle Paperwhite tips and tricks for every reader
One of the most surprising kindle paperwhite tips and tricks is that your device hides a fully functional web browser, accessible only through a few taps in the menu. You’ll also learn how to organize a large library, use advanced reading tools, and sync your progress across devices. Whether you’re a new owner or a long-time user, these insights will help you read more comfortably and efficiently.
Send personal documents to your Kindle Paperwhite
You can email DOC, DOCX, PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, PRC, and MOBI files to your Kindle and read them in Kindle format. To do this, open the Send-to-Kindle service from your email account or the Kindle app. The device converts the file and delivers it wirelessly to your library, so you can read articles, recipes, or work documents without a cable. This is especially useful for long-form content you want to read on the Paperwhite’s glare-free display.
Access the hidden web browser
The Kindle Paperwhite includes a web browser, though it’s not advertised. To find it, tap the top of the screen while on the home screen, then select the menu icon (three dots) and choose “Web Browser.” The browser is experimental, so it works best for simple, text-heavy sites like Wikipedia or news articles, not complex interactive pages. Use it to look up a quick fact or check a recipe without picking up your phone.
Customize your reading display for comfort
Adjusting your reading display can significantly reduce eye strain. From any book, tap the page to open the toolbar, then select “Aa” (Font & Page Settings). Here, you can change the font size, font type, line spacing, and margins. You can also set text alignment to left-aligned, justified, or right-aligned. These options let you tailor the page to your preferences, whether you prefer larger text for quick reading or tighter spacing for a denser look.
Master the screen brightness and auto-brightness
To change the screen brightness manually, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the quick settings panel, then drag the brightness slider left or right. You can also enable or disable the "Auto Brightness" feature, which adjusts the brightness based on the surrounding lighting conditions. Keep in mind that higher brightness levels consume more battery power, so if you’re trying to extend battery life, set brightness to a moderate level or turn off auto-brightness when you’re in consistent lighting.
Organize your library with collections and filters
If you have hundreds of books, collections are a lifesaver. In your library, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select “Create New Collection.” Name it (e.g., “Mystery” or “Non-fiction”), then add books by tapping the checkboxes. To sort, use the sort bar at the top of the library to arrange by title, author, or recent. You can also filter your library to show only downloaded books, unread items, or books in collections. This keeps your library tidy without deleting anything.
Use reading tools like X-Ray, dictionary, and highlights
While reading, tap and hold a word to see its dictionary definition instantly. For deeper context, tap the top of the screen and select “X-Ray” to see characters, terms, and concepts mentioned in the book, this is handy for complex novels or non-fiction. To highlight a passage, press and hold to select text, then choose “Highlight.” To add a note, select “Add Note” after highlighting. The Time to Read feature estimates how long it will take you to finish a chapter or the entire book based on your reading speed. These tools are perfect for studying or referencing key information later.
Sync your progress with Whispersync
Whispersync syncs your reading progress across all your devices, so you can switch from your Paperwhite to the Kindle app on your phone or tablet and pick up right where you left off. To enable it, go to Settings, select “Reading Options,” and toggle on “Whispersync.” This works automatically once enabled, and it also syncs bookmarks, highlights, and notes. It’s a great way to keep reading during a commute or a lunch break without losing your place.
Understand the Signature Edition's ad-free lock screen
If you own the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, you get an ad-free lock screen by default, no special setup needed. This means you’ll see your book cover or a personal screensaver instead of promotional offers. Want to add a personal touch to your Kindle Paperwhite? You can customize the screensaver images that appear when your device is in sleep mode. Choose from a selection of built-in images or upload your own favorite pictures. If you have the standard Paperwhite and want to remove ads, you can pay a fee through your Amazon account, but the Signature Edition includes this as a built-in perk.
More ways to enhance your Kindle experience
For a better grip, attach a PopSocket to the back of your Paperwhite, it’s especially helpful for one-handed reading. To share books with family, enable “Household” sharing in your Amazon account settings, which lets you share purchased books with another adult and their kids’ profiles. Finally, to free up storage, archive books you’re not reading: long-press a book cover, select “Archive,” and it moves to your cloud library, still accessible anytime you want it. For more ideas, check out our guides on battery life and reading features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the web browser to stream video on my Kindle Paperwhite?
No, the experimental browser is not designed for video streaming. It’s best for simple text sites like news or reference pages, and it may struggle with heavy media content.
How do I take a screenshot on my Kindle Paperwhite?
Press and hold the power button, then tap the top of the screen. The screenshot is saved to your library under “Screenshots” and can be shared or viewed later.
Does the Kindle Paperwhite support audiobooks via Audible?
Yes, you can pair Bluetooth headphones and listen to Audible audiobooks, but you must have the Audible app or a compatible device. The Paperwhite does not have a speaker, so headphones are required.
Can I read PDFs with complex formatting on the Paperwhite?
Yes, but complex PDFs with tables, columns, or graphics may appear small or require zooming. For best results, use the “Page Display” option to reflow text or rotate the screen to landscape mode.
Can I read books in different languages on the Kindle Paperwhite?
Yes, the Kindle Paperwhite supports multiple languages for both the user interface and reading content. You can change the device language in Settings, and the Kindle Store offers books in various languages.
How do I turn on the backlight on my Kindle Paperwhite?
The Paperwhite uses a front light, not a backlight. You can also enable Auto Brightness there.
Can I download books from sources other than the Amazon store?
Yes, you can use the Send-to-Kindle service to email personal documents or use third-party services like Project Gutenberg for free ebooks. You can also sideload compatible files via USB.
How long does the battery of the Kindle Paperwhite last?
Amazon rates the battery for up to 10 weeks of use, based on half an hour of reading per day with wireless off and light setting at 13. Actual battery life varies depending on usage, brightness, and wireless activity.
For the wider topic, see Amazon Kindle unlimited.
